How to Prepare for Your PADI Freediver Course

Freedivers training on a depht line in South Fuerteventura

1. Understand What the Course Is

  • Knowledge development — theory of freediving, physiology and safety procedures
  • Confined water session — static apnea (90 seconds) and dynamic apnea (25 metres)
  • Open water sessions — free immersion and constant weight to 10–16 metres, buddy rescue skills

2. Get Comfortable with Your Face in the Water

  • Spend a few minutes in the pool or shower practising relaxed breathing through a snorkel. The goal is familiarity so the water doesn’t feel unfamiliar on day one.

3. Practice Diaphragmatic Breathing

Lie on your back, one hand on your chest, one on your belly. Breathe in through your nose and push your belly out before your chest rises. Exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat for 5 minutes. This is the foundation of freediving breath technique.

4. Sleep Well, Eat Lightly, Stay Hydrated

Do not eat a heavy meal within 3 hours of your session. A light breakfast is ideal. Drink water throughout the day. Avoid alcohol the night before.

5. Equalisation — The Skill Worth Learning in Advance

Pinch your nose and try to push air into your ears by moving the back of your tongue upward — like saying the letter ‘K’. This is the Frenzel technique. Practise daily before the course.

6. What to Bring on the Day

    • Swimwear, towel, sun protection
    • Water and a light snack
    • Any prescription medication you take regularly

    We provide all equipment. If you have your own mask or fins, bring them.

7. Leave Your Expectations Behind

Every student arrives with different fears, expectations and abilities. Freediving is not a competition. It is a skill built through relaxation, not effort. The students who progress fastest are usually the ones who can stay calm and trust the process.